​Spring is just around the corner and Canada Blooms invites you to enjoy the “Magic of Spring”. A thoughtful friend who knows my penchant for blooms and photo ops offered two tickets to the show and I happily accepted a diversion from the winter blahs.

My favourite photographer buddy - my mum - joined me last Friday for the early morning trip to Toronto. A line-up of at least a hundred shared our impatient enthusiasm for a day of full garden immersion.And when finally the doors opened, Canada Blooms welcomed us in to acres of Spring! The Toronto Flower Show challenged competitors with class titles that include Enchanting, Bewitching, and Bedazzling. My pick for most creative showed some deceptively delicious-looking cakes made entirely of plant material. 'Devish' added a touch of humour to the illusion of reality - competitors could choose 'any flavour' for their creations.

And my take on the one, not-to-be-missed gardener's experience? Quince Flowers - my absolute favourite - a small simple exhibit that tops the list for stunning visual appeal. Picture a weather-beaten table stacked with ancient bottles, and tiny pots of greenery. Now add a hundred riotous poppies in opulent orange and yellow - stunning - my garden will have poppies this year!